Talks between the team and Butler’s agent began on Saturday with the intent of extending the former 2010 third-round pick’s stay in San Diego as he enters the final year of his rookie contract.

Butler, a rising star in the Charger’s defense, has become a key component of the team and has stated he wants to stay. He would become an unrestricted free agent if not re-signed before the start of the next league year.

If Butler is to sign his extension this year it would be in the coming weeks, otherwise they’d be put on hold once the season begins